Somerville will play Balnarring on Sunday, 8 March in a highly anticipated MPCA Women’s Grand Final, with the sides entering the decider as two well-performed and evenly matched teams.
Somerville booked its place in the grand final last weekend with a one-run win over Tooradin, making 3/120 before restricting Tooradin to 4/119. The two teams were level twice during the regular season, highlighting how tight the contest has been between them.
For Somerville, Bethany Reece opened the batting and produced a match-winning 50. She was supported by Julie Fearns (26 not out), Tilly Black (16), Marlee Black (11) and Lara Brittain (11 not out).
With the ball, Tahlia Love recorded figures of 2/5, with Julie Fearns also contributing 2/24.
In the other qualifying match, fourth-placed Balnarring upset clear ladder leader Mt Martha, scoring 4/175 before dismissing Mt Martha for 87.
For Balnarring, Jemma Reynolds led from the front with 73 and 2/7, while Jess Marsh (53) and Brianna Watson (25 not out) helped maintain momentum with the bat.
A large crowd is anticipated at Somerville Recreation Reserve, with both clubs chasing their first premiership cup.
